Nepal's Foreign Minister Addresses Concerns Over Instability in West Asia, Highlights Citizen Safety Measures

Kathmandu. Interim Government's Foreign Minister, Balananda Sharma, stated that the government is serious and vigilant regarding the instability and conflict observed in West Asia (Middle East) and various other regions of the world. Addressing the 12th World Conference of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), Minister Sharma clarified that the government has placed the safety and interests of Nepali citizens residing in conflict zones as a top priority.

He mentioned that recent developments in the Middle East and the resulting impact on air services have directly affected the movement of Nepali citizens. He informed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already operationalized an 'Emergency Control Room' to immediately address citizen issues in case of potential emergencies.

Minister Sharma clarified that through this control room, the ministry will act as a bridge for information exchange and coordination between Nepali citizens abroad and their families back home. During his address, he also appealed to Nepali citizens in the West Asia region to immediately contact the Nepali Embassy there and inform them of their status if they face any problems or difficulties.

He said, "The instability and conflict seen in some parts of the world in the current time have increased concern for the security of Nepalis living abroad. The Government of Nepal is vigilant about this. Especially due to the developments in West Asia and the Middle East, our concern naturally increases regarding the condition of Nepali citizens working in those areas. It is evident that the disruption in air services in this region has also directly impacted the movement of Nepali citizens. Considering this situation, the Government of Nepal has prioritized the safety, interests, and assistance of Nepali citizens abroad and has moved forward with necessary coordination and collaborative efforts."

He further added, "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched an 'Emergency Control Room' to address citizen problems in case of potential emergencies. Through this control room, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will once again serve as a bridge between Nepali citizens abroad and their families and relatives residing in Nepal. Likewise, I would like to request, from this very platform, that Nepali citizens in the West Asia region inform us if they are facing any problems or difficulties and remain in contact with the Nepali Embassy there."

He stated that the cooperation and collaboration provided by the NRNA for the protection of the rights and welfare of Nepali citizens in distress abroad have been remarkable.